Bon Iver

Review by: Allison Johnson

Bon Iver, the self-titled follow up to Bon Iver’s 2008 Indie success For Emma, Forever Ago is a little less “Laying with your face on the floor ” says frontman Justin Vernon and a little more “Colorful”. This albums provides the soundtrack to what seems like the end of a bitter winter (the commonly described setting of the band’s first album), and the beginning of a beautiful spring. From Vernon’s unique falsetto voice to the other three talented musicians that make up Bon Iver, this album is the closest it gets to perfect. Those who loved For Emma will be even more impressed with the broad sound that is Bon Iver.

From the powerful synth-drums on the opening track “Perth”, to the auto tune and sax sounds on closer “Beth/Rest”, this album has a lot to offer. Carried over from the band’s debut album are the never failing sentimental lyrics that so many can relate to. On the hauntingly beautiful “Holocene” Vernon sings “Someway baby it’s part of me, apart from me”, a line that anyone who’s missing someone or something can resonate with. Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Bon Iver is the wide range of instruments used on the album. Listen for the brief horn parts in “Hinnom, TX” and the simple, sweet piano in “Wash.”. And make sure to pay close attention to the nostalgic, upbeat nature of both the melody and the lyrics to “Towers”. Another theme you will see present throughout the album is the song titles, as many of them are named after or describe real places and experiences. It is the unique elements like these that make Justin Vernon and Bon Iver more than just another Indie Rock band. Their sound is truly incomparable.